Serving the Eastern Upper Peninsula

BAY MILLS NEWS

Serving the Eastern Upper Peninsula

“Gnoozhekaaning Bidajimowin”

JANUARY 2026

BMRC plans grand opening celebration events

BRIMLEY – The wait is over! After years of

planning, and three years of construction, the massive expansion of Bay Mills Resort & Casino is complete. Community members and patrons are invited

to attend grand opening celebrations on January 29–

30.

“This is an exciting milestone that elevates the

guest experience and ushers in a new era of luxury,

entertainment, and community pride for the Eastern

Upper Peninsula of Michigan,” said BMRC General

Manager Richard LeBlanc.

The resort expansion features an additional 135

guest rooms and suites, each with expansive views

of Lake Superior. Guests can utilize a wide range of

new amenities, including spa services, an indoor

pool with splash pad, indoor & outdoor saunas, indoor & outdoor hot tubs, fitness center, new dining

options, and an arcade for guests of all ages.

“This expansion is the culmination of years of

hard work, a shared vision, and the strength of our

people,” said BMIC President Whitney Gravelle.

"Bay Mills Indian Community has long been a leader

in gaming, and we are excited to continue that legacy

with this expansion."

On Jan. 29, BMRC will host a private celebration

for tribal citizens, honoring members of the Bay

Mills Indian Community and distinguished guests.

“This exclusive event will recognize the heritage,

leadership, and collaboration that made this transformational project possible, and give community

members the first look at the new space,” added

LeBlanc.

Following the private celebration, the public will

be welcomed the following day, on Jan. 30.

Tours will be given of the new facility on both

days, giving visitors a first look at the new amenities.

Bay Mills Resort & Casino, owned and operated

by BMIC, first opened their doors in 1995. BMRC

is situated in the Upper Peninsula on Lakeshore

Drive in Brimley. BMRC shares boundaries with the

Hiawatha National Forest, and is centrally located to

many U.P. destinations, such as Tahquamenon Falls,

Soo Locks, and Pt. Iroquois Lighthouse, as well as

numerous outdoor hiking and snowmobiling trails,

and beaches.

End of an era: Tierney retires from BMIC

By Shannon Jones

Bay Mills News

BAY MILLS — For decades,

Kathryn “Candy” Tierney has been a

fixture in tribal administration. On

Dec.19 she hung up her coat for the last

time, retiring after 40 years of service

to Bay Mills Indian Community.

“I can remember hearing stories of

how Candy fought for Bay Mills when

I was a child,” said BMIC President

Whitney Gravelle. “When I had the opportunity to begin working with Candy

at Bay Mills, my grandma told me to

make sure I listen to everything she

says.”

But Tierney wasn’t always destined

to become a lawyer.

She began her education as an honors student double major, earning her

journalism and English degree from St.

Catherine’s University in St. Paul,

Minn. The work, however, didn’t appeal to her.

Tierney said at the time she graduated with her journalism degree,

women weren’t really in the media,

other than columns and recipe pages,

and she didn’t see a future in that type

of work. When she heard a friend discussing law school, she decided she

would attend as well.

While attending the University of

Minnesota Law School, Tierney

worked on one of the biggest cases in

“I had the dream job of assisting the

community to grow in the modern world

as they took control of their destiny.”

— Kathryn Tierney

tribal history, joining with the defense

team representing American Indian

Movement members Russell Means

and Dennis Banks.

Means and Banks were being prosecuted for their role in an armed

takeover of Wounded Knee in 1973.

Tierney and her classmates worked the

case, without pay, and the pair were acquitted two years later.

The students were so interested in

tribal law, they encouraged the school

to add a course in tribal law, which they

did.

When she graduated from law

school in 1974, her then husband had

received a job offer in the Upper Peninsula. From there, she learned of the position in Bay Mills and was hired to

serve as the tribes first in-house counsel. The position was funded with grant

money from the Catholic Church,

under a program to “effectuate social

change.” The three year grant was

eventually given to five tribes in Michigan, providing them counsel to help develop their justice systems.

When Tierney arrived in Bay Mills,

Mickey Parish was serving as tribal

president and the tribal offices were

just being built.

“At that time, most tribal members

were self employed or fishing. No one

had attorneys like they do now,” said

Tierney. “I was welcomed by the community. I attended every meeting.”

Abe LeBlanc’s fishing case was on

appeal when Tierney began in Bay

Mills. And some of her first actions in

the new position were to protect tribal

treaty rights, the work she is proudest

of doing. She argued the 1976 landmark case, People vs. LeBlanc, that

helped further protect tribal fishing and

hunting rights that tribal members exercise today.

Tierney’s work included developing

the criminal code for BMIC, in consultation with tribal members. The code,

which was approved by the BIA in

1976, is the foundation of the laws

within the community.

Tierney worked for BMIC from

1974-1979, and then served with the

Department of Interior Office of the

Solicitor. When she left the Interior Solicitor's Office, she headed up the Indian Legal Services program in

Wisconsin for three years, and did work

for 10 tribes in that state.

Her accomplishments include a tax

sharing agreement for tobacco products, a license plate agreement for

Menominee, and an extradition agreement passed by the Wisconsin Legislature. She has also served as in-house

counsel for two other tribal communities.

Tierney then returned to BMIC as

in-house counsel from 1990-2025,

tackling a variety of legal battles and

developing policy.

“The institutional knowledge that

Candy has can never be replaced or

replicated,” said Gravelle. “But she

was more than our lawyer. Candy has

been a friend to many. From her birthday hat celebrations in administration

to sharing stories from her life, she will

be missed.”

But Tierney won’t be far from the

community she has served for so long.

She will continue to consult on cases

for BMIC and plans to stay involved in

community events, such as pow wow,

as her two granddaughters are jingle

dancers.

“I had the dream job of assisting the

community to grow in the modern

world as they took control of their destiny,” Tierney concluded.

Page 2

Chairperson’s Report: A year in review

By BMIC President Whitney Gravelle

Mino Oshki Biboon! Happy New Year to all of our family, friends, employees,

elders, youth, and community members on behalf of Bay Mills Indian Community.

We have accomplished many great things and celebrated steps that will continue to provide for future generations and provide for the future prosperity of

Bay Mills Indian Community. Today, as we look forward to what the new year

may bring, I would like to celebrate the progress we have made together this

year for our Tribal Nation:

* Placed $7,000,000 into the Elder’s Trust Fund and Long-Term Investment

Fund, ensuring they continue to serve as pillars of support for our tribal elders

and citizens.

* Raised Bay Mills Indian Community’s minimum wage to $15 an hour for all

hourly employees across government and enterprise operations.

* Celebrated the opening of the Ganawenindiwag Recovery Center, a safe place

for individuals to gather in sobriety and culture so that they may walk the red

road and live the good life.

* Negotiated and signed the first Tribal-State Cannabis Compact in the State of

Michigan, providing access to the state market to strengthen business operations.

* Completed and installed 9 new homes in the Plantation Hills Housing Development, and started 8 new elder homes on Spectacle Lake home to expand housing stock and to provide accessible and affordable lifestyles for our tribal citizens

to live within their Tribal Nation.

* Honored our ancestors with the removal of the Obelisk from Brady Park,

known to us as Wudjiwong, the sacred burial grounds of our ancestors.

* Started construction on a $17,300,000 solar farm on M-221 with grant funds

from the Environment and Protect Agency to launch a community solar array

that will offset Bay Mill Indian Community’s energy consumption.

* Completed renovation of the Bay Mart Gas Station, bringing much needed expansion of pumps, repair of the parking lot, and modernization of the fuel system.

* Finished the final touches of the Shingabawassin "Spirit Stone Trail,” which

stretches more than 9 miles across our Tribal Nation connecting Brimley State

Park, the town of Brimley, Bay Mills Indian Community, Monocle Lake Campground, and the historic Pt. Iroquois Lighthouse and Museum.

* Received a $9,000,000 donation from the McKenzie Scott Foundation to support future infrastructure and programming at Bay Mills Community College.

* Developed the Vehicle Repair & Assistance Program, to support our tribal citizens and their families with critical transportation needs.

* Revised the Michigan Highway Reciprocity Agreement of Bay Mills Indian

Community expanding license plates to all tribal citizens living within Chippewa

County, while also launching newly designed plates to support programs within

and throughout our Tribal Nation.

* Announced the Grand Opening date of the Bay Mills Resort & Casino expansion, which will provide for prosperity for future generations of Bay Millionaires.

* Implemented the next step in our language revitalization initiative with the installation of stop signs that feature both the Anishinaabemowin word

"NGAASHKAAN" and the English word "STOP."

* Invested $2,000,000 into our employees across our enterprise and governmental operations by lowering health insurance premiums.

* Opened Chester’s Chicken and Northern Light at Four Seasons to diversify

business, food opportunities, and provide delicious ready-made meals to our families.

* Finished the Riverview Campground renovations, bringing 16 new water &

electric hookup campground spots, new pavilion and concession stand, concrete

pathways for ADA accessibility to the beach, along with other picnic and game

amenities.

* Hosted the return of the Superior Whitefish Festival, sharing the history and

legacy of treaty rights under the 1836 Treaty of Washington.

* Opened the Treaty Fisher Facility, which is dedicated to providing commercial

use ice to support, promote, and sustain the treaty-protected fishing activities of

our tribal citizens.

* Proudly launched Destination Bay Mills, a new tourism initiative that celebrates the rich culture, history, and cherished traditions of our ancestors, elders,

and homelands right here in Bay Mills, Michigan.

* Implemented our community signage plan, and installed improved wayfinding

signage across our Tribal Nation.

* Shared with the rest of the world the untold story of our tribal citizens surviving

the storm that sank the Edmund Fitzgerald.

* Increased tribal citizen input through strategic survey implementation for various initiatives, including child care, elder services, and governmental opera-

tions.

* Celebrated the installation of statues at the Roundabout on the I-75 Business

Spur in Sault Ste. Marie, MI sharing the history of our people in Baawating with

representation of Chief Shingabawossin.

* Finalized clean up of Chippewa Landing and the old Silverdome site removing

brownfields from Bay Mills Indian Community’s reservation.

* Launched the Abandoned Vehicle Clean-Up Program, removing more than 70

abandoned vehicles in Bay Mills Indian Community to protect our environment,

and create a safer, healthier community for future generations.

* Designed and gifted exclusive one-of-a-kind Elder Jackets to all elders 55 years

or older within Bay Mills Indian Community.

* Partnered with the U.S. Coast Guard to provide access and space to dental care

within Sault Ste. Marie, MI.

* Received a Certificate of Appreciation for the Bay Mills Health Center from

the Michigan Veteran’s Employment Services for Bay Mills Indian Community's

ongoing commitment to hiring and supporting Michigan Veterans.

* Completed the fifth annual Wild Rice Seeding program throughout Spectacle

Lake, the Waishkey River, and the Back Bay to promote traditional foods and

food sovereignty.

* Hosted the third Manoomin / Wild Ricing Camp bringing back traditional ricing teachings to our community.

* Strengthened cultural programming and teachings through the implementation

of community workshops for tribal citizens.

* Made major infrastructure improvements to our enterprise operations at Bay

Mills Resort & Casino, Four Seasons, Bay Mart, and Northern Light Cannabis

Company.

Chi miigwetch, thank you, from my heart to all who have walked with us in

these accomplishments. I offer my deepest gratitude to those who believed in

our work, supported our vision, and lifted our people along the way. Each year,

as I pause to reflect I am reminded of the strength of our ancestors, the capability

of our present community, and the promise of our future generations.

Together, we carry forward the responsibility of building a future rooted in

hope, promise, and opportunity for our children and for the generations yet unborn. Yet, these achievements are not measured by milestones alone, but by the

unity that makes them possible. None of this could be achieved without your unwavering love for our community. Thank you. May 2026 bring peace, good

health, and blessings to you all. Happy New Year.

Please check out our tribal website or the official Tribal Chairperson Facebook

Page for regular updates about what is going on here at Bay Mills. Please don’t

hesitate to call, email, or stop by for a visit to share your thoughts, questions,

and concerns with me.

Page 3

Executive Council discusses business at regular meeting

Jan. 12 meeting

President Whitney Gravelle

— Two incidents last week: Jan. 6 roof

collapse at Sacy’s and the Jan. 8 threat

to the Child Development Center.

— Roof being evaluated. Hallway not

yet cleared. There was an issue with the

original design (1995) and the trusses,

and then equipment placed contributed

to collapse. It was not snow/weather related. It will take time to repair. It will

be May or April before the kitchen area

in Sacy’s is open. We are looking at options in the meantime, including a mobile kitchen. The rest of the roofing

system is being evaluated as well.

— The CDC received a phone call and

went into immediate lock down. At no

point was any one in harm’s way. This

was a learning experience about response in our community. The InterTribal Council runs the center, so BMIC

does not control their response methods. These policies and procedures are

being reviewed with them. The individual is lodged in the Chippewa County

Jail and will be charged with terrorism.

The state is investigation and prosecuting in the case, as they are non-Native

and not able to be charged in tribal

court.

— 2020 Consent Decree now valid as

Supreme Court denied Cert.

— Teams are immersed in the expansion grand opening. Offices still being

set up and items being ordered. Everything is falling into place. Pool and hot

tubs are done, saunas are next to be

hooked up.

— Resort improvements are on the

horizon to put everything in line with

the renovations. We will be putting out

a request for proposal for design in the

future.

— Met with business holdings to discuss NLCC, Four Seasons and Bay

Mart. We are working to bring Four

Seasons chicken to the other side of the

reservation through Rivermart.

— Destination Bay Mills meetings are

ongoing. We are looking at movie

nights, water trampoline, poker runs,

and improving signage.

— Inland Consent Decree negotiations

edits will take place later this month.

— BMCC and DSGW will be moving

forward on their new addition. It will be

put out for bid this week.

— We are working on a generative AI

policy. Tribal website updates are ongoing, as are policies and procedures for

tribal discount.

— Looking at bingo at BMRC in

March/April. Gaming Commission has

approved.

— Predictive markets are also an issue

concerning Internet gaming. We are

working with legal on this.

Tribal Manager Rachel Lyons

— Sandra Walden will begin as assistant tribal manager on Jan. 26.

— Implementing new software on the

governmental side.

— End of year spending has been reviewed.

— Monthly leadership meeting held.

— Request for proposal to be released

this week.

— Elder housing gas installation moving forward.

— House 1 & 2 are done. Others are

being worked on and will be done soon.

— Firekeepers Lodge meeting to be

held to address construction questions.

Then RFP will be drafted.

— Townhouses punch list has been

completed. Houses to be inspected.

— Plantation Hills is working on porch

construction. Snow and the holidays

have put them a little behind.

— Long Term Care facility RFP for engineering services is being worked on.

Chief Financial Officer Crystal

Wilcox

— Working on audits.

— Office Microsoft Office 365 has

been rolled out to some individuals in

the organization. It will be rolled out to

everyone else in the coming weeks. We

are working kinks out. Training will be

shared in the future.

— Looking at new payroll software.

— Accounting is working on expansion

updates in the system.

— Working on policy reviews.

Health Director Lucy DeWildt

— Facilities are trying to keep up with

the snow. The EMS building had a leak,

even after cleaning the roof off. The

leak will be repaired. Roofs have been

inspected by staff. Truckloads of snow

have been removed.

— QTC on the agenda to facilitate wildland firefighter physicals.

— Attended several meetings.

— New position in dental being interviewed for. This will help the department.

— Attended several meetings.

— Joint Commission will be on site by

May 25 for reaccreditation.

— Numbers have gone up for patients

being served and continue to increase

from year to year.

Human Resources Director Stacey

Walden

— Current employee count is 758 employees.

— Looking at payroll companies.

— HR training and development director will be Shelby Passage, she starts

next week.

— Employment manager will be hired

in the coming weeks. This will help

streamline processes.

— Expansion positions have done orientation.

— Kronos did not process leave accruals correctly. They were done manually.

Some individuals did not roll over time

as they had too much and lost it. Managers will be reminded about this.

— Policies going before the board

today.

— Staff are being reallocated from

Sacy’s to get hours. We are working on

what insurance will cover.

Cultural Coordinator John Hutchinson

— Working on snow removal from the

teaching lodge.

— Not many events were held over the

holidays.

— History is working on a display for

grand opening at BMRC.

— Training planned.

Bay Mills Business Holdings

Justin LeBlanc, Four Seasons/Bay

Mart

— Both stores did well in the audit.

— Looking at uniforms for staff. Will

receive quote at the end of the week.

— Looking at self checkout for Four

Seasons.

— Evaluating roofs.

New Business: (Approved)

1. Resolution No. 26-01-12A: Waiver

of Sovereign Immunity QTC Medical

Group of Alaska-Bay Mills Health

Services. Physicals for the fire crew.

2. Resolution No. 26-01-12B: Resolution of support of the application to the

Indian Housing Block Grant for the

BMIC Low Income Housing Development Project- $5,000,000.

3. Resolution No. 26-01-12C: Support

of the Application to the American250

MI History Grant Program National Endowment for the Humanities - $50,000.

To construct a statue to commemorate

the history of tribal fishing rights.

4. Acceptance of Funds:

a. HRSA Health Center Program –

Continuation Award - $732,761 (general operations)

b. Special Diabetes Program for Indians 2026 - $63,333

5.Approval to Submit:

a. FY 26-27 SAMHSA Non-Compet-

ing Continuation Application $250,000

b. Public Health Emergency Preparedness - 2026 Grant - $36,399

c. Tribal Transportation Program

Safety Fund - $200,000

d. Michigan Tribal Government

Grant Program – Long Range Transportation Plan - $32,000

e. BIA Tribal Justice Support Funding - $145,000

6. Bay Mills Health Center Chief Optometric Officer & Optometrist Services Contract- three year contract.

7. Human Resources Dept.

a. Personnel Policy – 810 Remote

Work. Amendment to strike the clause

that will remote work will be allowable

on medical leave. This is because if

they are on medical leave they are relieved of all their work duties. Differentiate between sick and remote work.

b. Personnel Policy – 402 Attendance. Omission in policy in 402.4 to

define an unexcused absence.

c. Request for Stipend Increase –

Grievance Board. Move from $50

stipend to $100 stipend. Other committees to be looked at as well for an audit.

8. Bay Mills Gaming Commission –

Appoint Members: Three vacancies.

Justin Carrick returning, Tim Kinneypartial term, Candice LeBlanc, recommended for appointment.

9. Raffle License: Boys & Girls Club

Valentine’s Day Cake Raffle

10. Raffle License:

a. 50/50 Raffle – Mashkawizii Community & Family Services

b. 50/50 Raffle – Pow Wow Committee Supporting Dancing Crane to reopen

11.Poll votes: Medical Donations

Page 4

Published with permission from Earthjustice

WHAT'S AT STAKE

The Trump administration is on the verge of approving a massive and

experimental oil tunnel in the center of the Great Lakes, under the Straits of

Mackinac.

This is the last chance we have to tell Michigan that “we don’t want it.”

The oil tunnel would mean at least six years of noisy, dusty, and unsightly construction at the Straits that will destroy wetlands, depopulate fish and bird species, and interrupt income from recreation, tourism and fishing. The

tunnel project is not a safer alternative to Enbridge’s Line 5 dual pipelines. It is a false solution that extends the dangers of Line 5 for another century, bringing more risks of a catastrophic oil spill that could contaminate our water

supply, devastate Tribal lifeways, and cost billions of taxpayer dollars to clean up. Under President Trump, the US

Army Corps of Engineers has fast-tracked this project using a fake “energy emergency.”

But Enbridge cannot move forward without permits from the State of Michigan. Soon, Michigan’s Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy will begin collecting comments from the public on one of the final permits for

the oil tunnel. Your voice is needed more than ever to tell EGLE to reject Enbridge’s mad science experiment and

protect Michigan’s clean waters for future generations to come.

Michiganders don’t need Line 5 to have affordable, reliable energy. In fact, Enbridge’s own experts say that shutting

down Line 5 wouldn’t even cost half a penny per gallon at the gas pump. Yet when Michigan’s Governor Whitmer ordered a shutdown of the dual pipelines in 2020, Enbridge refused. Today, Enbridge continues to violate the governor’s shutdown order. The State of Michigan must not be bullied into selling out its own clean water for the sake of

foreign oil pipeline profits.

Earthjustice and the Native American Rights Fund represent the Bay Mills Indian Community, as they fight to stop

the tunnel project and to decommission Line 5. The Straits of Mackinac is a sacred site of creation for Bay Mills and

for Anishinaabe people who have fished, gathered, and practiced ceremony along the Great Lakes since time immemorial. A spill there would have unthinkable consequences for Tribal Nations – and for all of us.

Send a public comment to EGLE and urge them to reject the Line 5 tunnel project and protect the Great Lakes.

Learn More: http://earthjustice.org/tunnel

Page 5

Cloverland Electric announces 2026 director elections

DAFTER — Cloverland Electric Cooperative has announced that 2026 director

election packets are now available for members interested in serving on the cooperative’s board of directors. Each year, one director seat from each of Cloverland’s three

districts (A, B and C) is up for election. The co-op’s nine-member board is made up

of three directors from each district, and all directors serve a three-year term.

Serving on Cloverland’s board is an opportunity to make a difference across the

Eastern Upper Peninsula. Directors bring their experience, problem-solving skills and

community perspective to help guide the co-op’s long-term strategic direction. The

board provides oversight on major initiatives—such as system reliability improvements, equipment and technology upgrades, renewable energy planning and the coop’s overall energy portfolio. Directors also support local economic development

efforts and uphold the cooperative principles that serve Cloverland’s 34,000 member-owners.

While Cloverland staff manages day-to-day operations, directors work with the

chief executive officer to set strategic goals, evaluate major capital investments, and

ensure the cooperative remains responsive, reliable and member-focused for years to

come.

“Every election is an opportunity for members to help shape the cooperative’s future,” states Cloverland’s President and CEO, Mike Heise. “Whether you choose to

run for a seat or cast your ballot, we hope all members take part in this important cooperative tradition.”

Interested in seeking election to the board?

Director candidates must meet the qualifications outlined in Cloverland’s bylaws

and file a nomination petition with at least 25 valid member signatures from their district. For a nomination petition, please email elections@cloverland.com or leave a

voicemail message at 906-632-5143. Nominating petitions and supporting documents

must be electronically submitted or returned to the co-op’s administration office at

725 E. Portage Avenue in Sault Ste. Marie by 4:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 27.

Election Schedule:

* Ballots mail April 27

* Voting ends May 29

* Members may vote by mail or electronically.

Winter is here, and falling ice closures are

possible for the Mackinac Bridge

ST. IGNACE — Ice has formed on the upper cables and towers of the Mackinac

Bridge, leading to the possibility of closing the bridge to traffic due to falling ice

over the coming days or weeks.

When ice falls from the bridge's towers and cables, the Mackinac Bridge Authority closes the bridge to traffic for safety. Ice chunks, sheets and spears that fall

hundreds of feet from the bridge's towers and cables have damaged vehicles and

have the potential to injure or kill vehicle occupants.

"It's impossible to say when this ice could begin falling from the bridge, resulting in a closure, or if it could gradually melt without incident," said Bridge Director

Kim Nowack. "We want our customers to be aware of the possibility of closures

and know how to find more information if they occur."

A video released by the MBA and the Michigan Department of Transportation

(MDOT) includes video footage and still images of kitchen table-sized sheets and

20-foot-long spears of ice shattering on the bridge deck to help explain why the

bridge must be closed when ice is falling.

Mackinac County 911, using its RAVE Alert System, will send updates and information from the MBA to users' cell phones any time the bridge has a partial or

full closure due to weather or other conditions. Messages also will be sent when a

full closure is reduced to a partial closure or when the bridge reopens to all traffic.

To sign up, text "MacBridge" to 67283.

Details and updates are also available around the clock at www.MackinacBridge.org/Fares-Traffic/Conditions/ and on X at @MackinacBridge. The

Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) posts information on closures

on X, BlueSky, Threads, Facebook and www.Michigan.gov/Drive, as well as on

freeway dynamic message signs.

The MBA has compiled a list of frequently asked questions about falling ice

and other topics on its website.

Since 1995, when the MBA began tracking closures of the bridge for any reason,

the bridge has been closed 32 times for falling ice, an average of about one each

year. The first noted closure for falling ice was on Jan. 30, 1998, when the bridge

was closed for two hours and 50 minutes. The most recent was April 2-3, 2025.

The shortest closure for falling ice was 37 minutes on Nov. 29, 2001. The

longest closure to date was the April 2-3, 2025, closure when the bridge was closed

for 30 hours and four minutes. The average falling ice closure lasts about five hours

and 54 minutes. Over the last 30 years (roughly 262,800 hours), the bridge has

been closed 188 hours and four minutes for falling ice, less than 0.1 percent of the

time.

* Director candidate information will be available on Cloverland.com, the cooperative’s social media channels and the May | June issue of the Cloverland Connections

magazine.

* Election results will be presented at the Cooperative’s Annual Meeting of the Members on Thursday, June 4, 2026, and announced on Cloverland.com.

Business owners: ensure your vote counts:

A business or other entity, such as a firm, association, corporation, partnership or

governmental unit, must designate on its stationery the representative who is authorized to cast a vote on behalf of the entity and file the designation with the cooperative

by the date of record, March 27. A sample letter is available at cloverland.com/elections. Please call 906-632-5143 or email elections@cloverland.comwith questions

regarding the director election process.

Cloverland Electric Cooperative is a not-for-profit, member-owned electric utility

located in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. The cooperative energizes over 4,000 miles

of power line, serving over 43,000 meters for 34,000 residential and business members across Chippewa, Delta, Mackinac, Luce and Schoolcraft counties.

Public comments let officials know what

residents are thinking, according to study

By ERIC FREEDMAN/Capital News Service

LANSING – Want insights into what’s on the mind of the citizenry?

Just listen.

One way for policymakers to find out is to pay attention to what people say during

the public comment period at local government sessions.

That’s what researchers from the University of Michigan and Washington University in St. Louis explored, drawing on recordings of 259 meetings of 15 city councils

around the state for a full year.

The communities ranged in population from the largest – Sterling Heights, Ann

Arbor and Lansing – to the smallest: Pleasant Ridge, Cedar Springs and Williamston.

Among the other cities in the study were Saline, Alpena and Jackson.

“City council meetings are vital sites for civic participation where the public can

speak directly to their local government,” their new study said. “By addressing city

officials and calling on them to take action, public commenters can potentially influence policy decisions spanning a broad range of concerns, from housing to sustainability to social justice.”

The cities range in per capita income – from $22,420 a year in Inkster to $84,370

in Pleasant Ridge – and in median age – from 25.9 in Ann Arbor to 48.2 in Lathrup

Village. They vary in partisan voting and racial makeup as well.

The researchers’ computer analysis of recordings archived on city YouTube channels in 2023 disclosed “a rich and varied landscape of public concerns.”

Sabina Tomkins, an assistant professor of information at U-M and a study co-author, said “We saw active participation across a range of issues.”

The analysis found that the largest share of comments related to local “place-based”

concerns about governance, such as policing, housing and zoning.

Second in frequency were comments on broader social concerns about the wellbeing of groups and individuals but not directly connected to city government, such

as affordability, homelessness and public health, it said.

And some comments crossed into both categories.

Tomkins said, “People are able to span both those bases in a single comment.”

“We were really interested in how often people talk about these social concerns,”

such as the Black Lives Matter movement, “and bring it back to local projects in their

communities,” she said.

The research team found geographic variations in what participants wanted to talk

about.

For example, the study said, “Comments in some of the larger cities mention societal concerns more often than smaller cities.” And while housing was the secondmost common local concern overall, the subject was “barely mentioned, if at all,” in

some cities, including Inkster and Lathrup Village.

The analysis found little evidence that “soap boxers” – “people speaking at length

without any connection or relevance to local governance” – flood the public comment

periods.

“The majority of the time, participants commented on concrete local concerns or on

societal concerns which they wanted more government action and accountability

around,” the study said.

Tomkins said the technology used to collect and analyze comments may provide

useful information that assists journalists in covering their communities better.

“We know local news helps considerably in holding public officials accountable,”

including deterring corruption, Tomkins said.

And journalists “ideally can use transcripts not to replace, but to supplement, local

news without having to go to public meetings themselves,” she said.

The study is under review by an academic journal.

Page 6

Walden hired as BMIC assistant tribal manager

By Shannon Jones

Bay Mills News

BAY MILLS — Bay Mills Indian

Community has hired a new assistant tribal

manager, but she is a familiar face to

many. Sandra Walden, director of the Boys

& Girls Club, will transition to the new position on Jan. 26.

Walden has been leading the BGC

since 2010. She began working at BGC in

2007 and transitioned to Unit Director at

the Bay Mills site prior to becoming director. Her favorite part of working at the club

was the members.

“The kids of course were my favorite

part of the position. But I think one of the

best after that is when club members come

back as staff. It’s so interesting how they

use their memories from being a club kid

to shape their identities as staff,” said

Walden. “It’s also so special for me because they were my program kids and I

watch them transform right before my

eyes from these small humans that I mentored, to these adults now mentoring their

own small humans.I also love, love to see

all the club kids out in the world being

amazing.”

Throughout her years at the BGC,

Walden and her team can be credited with

many program successes. From her work

to develop the new clubhouse to establishing new programs and expanding leadership, she has been hands-on with her team.

She hopes to bring that energy with her

into tribal government operations.

“It wasn’t that I was looking or wanting

to leave-it was this position specifically.

When I read the job description what intrigued me was the opportunity to support

other departments,” said Walden. “I’m excited to gain a deeper understanding of our

governmental operations, support their

Airports receive funds to clean up PFAS

LANSING — The Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy has announced $9 million in grants to

19 municipal airports across the state to address PFAS contamination related to the use

of PFAS-containing firefighting foam.

The grant funding will be used for a wide

range of activities including PFAS testing

and monitoring, potential source control and

cleanup strategies for groundwater and

stormwater, and cleaning of firefighting

equipment and replacement firefighter turnout gear.

In the local region, two airports received

the funding. Chippewa County International

Airport / Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation was awarded

$475,000 and Pellston Regional Airport received one million dollars.

A total of 21 applications requesting

$14.8 million for the $9 million in allocated

grant funding were received in response to

the request for proposals from the Michigan

PFAS Response Team.

Commonly known as PFAS, per- and

polyfluoroalkyl substances are a group of

potentially harmful man-made chemicals

used in thousands of applications globally,

including firefighting foam, food packaging, and many other consumer and industrial applications. They do not break down

easily in the environment and are known to

accumulate in the tissues of living organisms.

goals and objectives and increase their impact.”

Walden will work with Tribal Manager

Rachel Lyons and be situated in the tribal

administration building. According to

Lyons, this will be a personnel-based position, focused on leadership development

and supporting and managing various departments within government. The assitant

tribal manager will work on coordinating

interdepartmental activities, monitoring

performance, and ensuring projects and

services are delivered efficiently and in

alignment with the Executive Council’s directives.

“Supporting more than 300 employees

on the governmental side of BMIC and delivering a wide range of services requires

dedicated leadership. This new position

will help us meet the community’s needs,

strengthen daily operations, and support

continued growth in programs that benefit

our members and staff. We are excited to

welcome Sandy into this role,” said Lyons.

In addition to her new role, Walden will

be building on her bachelor’s degree background and is starting work on her master’s degree in public administration this

spring. Her last day at the club will be on

Jan. 23.

Page 7

Boulley headlines Library of Michigan Night for Notables

LANSING – The Library of Michigan and the Library of Michigan Foundation are welcoming bestselling author Angeline Boulley as the featured keynote

speaker for the 2026 Night for Notables celebration on Saturday, April 18.

Boulley, an enrolled member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, is the award-winning author of “Firekeeper’s Daughter” and “Warrior

Girl Unearthed,” both widely acclaimed for their compelling storytelling, vivid

sense of place, and powerful exploration of Anishinaabe culture.

Her debut novel earned the Printz Medal, Morris Award, and numerous national honors, establishing her as one of the most influential contemporary

voices in young adult literature. “Firekeeper’s Daughter” and “Warrior Girl Unearthed” were also honored as Michigan Notable Books selections in 2022 and

2024, respectively. Angeline’s newest novel, “Sisters in the Wind,” was released

in September.

Night for Notables, hosted annually by the Library of Michigan and the Library of Michigan Foundation, honors 20 titles selected to be on the Michigan

Notable Books list. The upcoming Night for Notables event will celebrate the

2026 Michigan Notable Books with Boulley’s keynote address and opportunities

for attendees to meet the honored authors.

“The Library of Michigan Foundation is proud to support the Library of

Michigan and the Michigan Notable Books program,” said Sarah Shaw, executive director of the foundation. “We look forward to an amazing event that will

be elevated through Angeline’s participation.”

State Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko expressed excitement about the upcoming event.

“Literacy is my top priority as state superintendent,” Maleyko said. “Showcasing outstanding books by Michigan authors helps promote the importance

of reading.”

Participating authors will travel to libraries across the state on the Michigan

Notable Books authors tour to share their experiences and engage with local

communities. Many also engage in the Authors Conversations video series, in

which viewers can explore the backgrounds of the authors, uncover their creative processes and hear readings from book selections.

2026 Michigan Notable Book

s

“Bear County, Michigan: Stories” by John Counts - TriQuarterly

“Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea: A Veteran's Memoir” by Khadijah Queen – Legacy Lit

“The Containment: Detroit, the Supreme Court, and the Battle for Racial Jus-

tice in the North” by Michelle Adams - Farrar, Straus and Giroux

“Cooler Than Cool: The Life and Work of Elmore Leonard” by C.M. Kushins

- Mariner Books

“Dead Moose on Isle Royale: Off Trail with the Citizen Scientists of the

Wolf-Moose Project” by Jeffrey M. Holden - Michigan State University Press

“Devouring Time: Jim Harrison, a Writer's Life” by Todd Goddard - Blackstone Publishing

“Forever in the Path: The Black Experience at Michigan State University” by

Pero G. Dagbovie - Michigan State University Press

“The Gales of November: The Untold Story of the Edmund Fitzgerald” by

John U. Bacon - Liveright

“The Hours Are Long, But the Pay Is Low: A Curious Life in Independent

Music” by Rob Miller - 3 Fields Books

“The House of David: Salvation, Scandal, and Survival in a Modern American Commune” by Evelyn Sterne - Oxford University Press

“How to Talk to Your Succulent” by Zoe Persico - Tundra Books

“An Ignorance of Trees: A Memoir in Essays” by Jim Daniels - Cornerstone

Press

“Miss Betti, What Is This?: How Detroit's School Lunch Lady Got Good

Food on the Menu” by Lela Nargi; illustrated by Kristen Uroda - Sleeping Bear

Press

“No Human Involved: The Serial Murder of Black Women and Girls and the

Deadly Cost of Police Indifference” by Cheryl L. Neely - Beacon Press

“Roy Reuther and the UAW: Fighting for Workers and Civil Rights” by Alan

Reuther - Michigan State University Press

“Stepping Off The Boat: Stories From North Manitou Island” by Susan Hollister Wasserman - Leelanau Press

“Theater Kid: A Broadway Memoir” by Jeffrey Seller - Simon & Schuster

“This Magnetic North: Candid Conversations on a Changing Northern Michigan” by Tim Mulherin - Michigan State University Press

“The Vacation: A Teenage Migrant Farmworker’s Experience Picking Cherries in Michigan” by Robert “Carlos” Fuentes; illustrated by Kristen Wasil - independently published

“Waterline: A Novel” by Aram Mrjoian – HarperVia

More details about Night for Notables will soon be available on the Library

of Michigan and Library of Michigan Foundation websites. Learn more about

the Michigan Notable Books program by visiting Michigan.gov/NotableBooks.

Page 8

MCAC to host second annual Speakeasy Fundraiser

By Shannon Jones

Bay Mills News

BAY MILLS — Bay Mills

Mashkawizii Child Advocacy Center is

hosting their second annual Speakeasy

Fundraiser next month. On Feb. 14 you

can take your Valentine out for a night

of dancing, entertainment and prizes,

while supporting your local community.

MCAC provides a safe and supportive environment for children who have

experienced abuse and/or neglect. The

Child Advocacy Center is a place where

children are heard, supported, and can

heal from suspected trauma and abuse.

These facilities offer services that are

tailored to each child's needs.

Funds raised will go back into the

program, assisting local families and

children. MCAC is the first native tribeowned CAC in the state of Michigan

and serves all children in the tri-county

area of Chippewa, Luca and Mackinac

Counties.

The 1920s Speakeasy Fundraiser was

well received last year, and organizers

are looking to top that this year.

While vintage attire is not required,

it is encouraged. You must be 21 to attend.

And if you are unable to attend, you

can still assist by purchasing a $25 sponsorship ticket. Silent auction items are

still needed. If you would like to make

a donation, please contact Joan

Killips atjmkillips@baymills.org or Autumn

Charles

at

amcharles@baymills.org.

“On Valentine’s Day, slip into your

glad rags and share the love—because

when the community backs Mashkawizii Child Advocacy Center, doing good

becomes the cat’s pajamas,” said Au-

tumn Charles, MCAC MDT coordinator.

You can also purchase tickets online

at: https://mcacspeakeasy2026.rsvpify.c

om.

OCS announces Students of

the Month for December

Students’ of the Month for December.

Humility/ Ddbaadendiziwin - Grandfather

K- Jayce Church

1- Ivan Bowen

2- Alesanna Schwiderson

3- Rose-Lyn Bottomley

4- Paige Semasky

5- Adrian Moon

6- Lena LeBlanc

Page 9

EUP Regional Science & Engineering Fair results announced

SAULT STE. MARIE — The Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate

School District and EUP MiSTEM Region held the annual EUP Regional Science & Engineering Fair for grades K-8

on Dec. 9, at Lake Superior State University. Participating schools included

Brimley, Les Cheneaux, JKL Bahweting, Pickford, Rudyard, Sault Elementary, Sault Area Middle School, and St.

Ignace. This year, 184 students advanced from local school district Science and Engineering Fair events to

represent 122 projects in the regional

event at LSSU.

Students had the opportunity to

present their questions, ideas, methods,

solutions, and results to teams of

judges. Judges evaluated the project

based on a judging rubric that is

aligned with the Science and Engineering Practices within Michigan's Science and Engineering Standards. The

judging panel consisted of members of

our local community: Bay Mills Community College, Chippewa County

Community Foundation, Cloverland,

DNR, EUPISD staff, Hessel Schoolhouse, Jr Achievement of the UP, Lake

Superior State University, MI Works,

Precision Edge, Soo Coop Credit

Union, US ARMY (enlisted and civilian), and USDA, along with a few retired community members. Although

all the projects were great and it was a

difficult decision for judges, the following students placed in the top three

for each grade:

1st Place: Bryan Otten (Rudyard)

2nd Place: Payson Leese (Pickford)

3rd Place: Colton Nash (Sault Elementary)

KINDERGARTEN

1st Place: Linden Bourque (Rudyard)

2nd Place: Beckham Sweet (Sault Elementary)

3rd Place: Milo Vissar (Sault Elementary)

SEVENTH GRADE

1st Place: Jackson Ball (JKL)

2nd Place: Group Project: Austin

Labadie, Ethan Kimber, Teagan

Greener (Sault Middle)

3rd Place: Group Project: Jalen Matelski, Jace LaPonsie (St Ignace)

FIRST GRADE

SECOND GRADE

1st Place: Bryson Lehmkule (Sault Elementary)

2nd Place: Harper Shaw (Rudyard)

3rd Place: Group Project: Harvey

Behm, Willa Mullen, Hazel Gibson

(JKL)

EIGHTH GRADE

1st Place: Group Project: Lola Donmyer, Emerie Graham (JKL)

2nd Place: Zoey Norman (JKL)

3rd Place: Ivan Grogan (St Ignace)

First place winners were awarded

with a trophy, second place received a

plaque, and third place received a

medal. In addition,1st through 3rd

place students in grades 6-8 are qualified to participate in Invention Convention Michigan, which is held at the

Henry Ford Museum in April.

2025 unemployment benefits tax

statements now available online

Expect to receive mailed 1099-Gs by end of January

THIRD GRADE

1st Place: Nolan Gerzetich (Sault Elementary)

2nd Place: Wyatt Maudrie (St Ignace)

3rd Place: Rayson LaPonsie (Rudyard)

FOURTH GRADE

1st Place: Jace Slocum (St Ignace)

2nd Place: Group Project: Piper Chapman, Vivian Krouth, Harper Paoli

(Sault Elementary)

3rd Place: Ivan Law (St Ignace)

FIFTH GRADE

1st Place: Jase Escherich (JKL)

2nd Place: Liam Maudrie (St Ignace)

3rd Place: Group Project: Zareef Mahmud, Dominic Branam, Jaxon Ormsbee

(Sault Middle)

SIXTH GRADE

1st Place: JT Stacy (Brimley)

2nd Place: Holden Hoy (JKL)

3rd Place: Group Project: Harper Herschel, Emma Richter (Pickford)

It’s tax season and workers who collected unemployment benefits last year

can now access their year-end tax statement online to make sure they have the

paperwork needed to file accurate tax returns.

You can view and download an electronic copy of your 1099-G “Certain Government Payments” statement for 2025 in your Michigan Web Account Manager

(MiWAM) account. Paper copies of tax statements should be delivered by the

U.S. Postal Service before the end of January.

It’s easy to view and download your 1099-G:

* Log into MiWAM.

* Click on the "I Want To" heading.

* Click on the "1099-G" link.

* Click on the 1099-G letter for the 2025 tax year and download a copy for your

records.

The statement shows the total amount of unemployment benefits paid to you

and how much was withheld for state and federal taxes. You may need a physical

copy, a scanned copy, or at least the information found on the statement to file

your state and federal taxes, depending on your individual tax returns.

Five things to keep in mind about your 1099-G

1. If you received unemployment benefits in 2025 but did not receive a 1099-G,

contact UIA using the Chat with an Agent feature in your MiWAM account,

scheduling an appointment at Michigan.gov/UIA, or calling Customer Service

at 1-866-500-0017.

2. If you received a 1099-G but did not receive unemployment benefits in 2025,

you could be a victim of identity theft. Fill out and submit a Statement of Identity

Theft.

3. If the total benefit amount listed is higher than what you received, it may be

due to automatic deductions such as repaying an unemployment benefit overpayment or to fulfill court-ordered payments.

4. If you believe your 1099-G is incorrect, request a revised statement by downloading a Request to Correct Form 1099-G and mailing it to: Unemployment Insurance Agency, 1099-G, P.O. Box 169, Grand Rapids, MI 49501-0169.

5. Beware of fake solicitations online or on social media that require you to pay

a fee to access your 1099-G. UIA will provide your statement to you free of

charge.

Page 10

Walking On

Abigail Mary (Langendorf) Haarala

Abigail Mary (Langendorf) Haarala, born on June 16, 1971, to James and

the late Patricia (Carr) Langendorf, peacefully passed away on Jan. 12, 2026

with loved ones by her side. She had been receiving liver cancer treatment at

the University of Michigan Hospital in Ann Arbor.

Abby was a true ball of fire—someone everyone instantly loved. She always

had a smile on her face, and she knew how to bring laughter to the toughest

moments in life. Abby could talk to literally anyone and make them feel special

and cared for.

From her early childhood spent with friends and family in the Radar subdivision to her cheerleader days in middle school and high school, she made lifelong friends in every corner of her life. Throughout her entire life, Abby always

displayed a special spark and a zest for life. With her contagious laugh and

bright smile, she touched so many people with her kindness and light.

Abby was always on the move. She never left the house unprepared, always

toting an overstuffed snack bag filled with “gotta have” things like beer salt

and flavor packets for her besties. No one phrased things quite like Abby did,

from “check, check double check” and “Jesus take the wheel” to “wackadoodle”

dogs and “zoomies” on the jet ski. Every adventure was accompanied by one

of her silly sound effects and a big smile.

At work, Abby excelled for nearly 15-years in educational technology sales,

always earning a place at the top of the sales leaderboard. Abby did not win

awards and recognitions just because she worked hard, but because she made

genuine friendships with her clients.

In recent years, Abby moved back to her hometown of Sault Ste. Marie where

she worked remotely from her new home on the river. She soaked up every day

of summer, passing the days jet-skiing and getting ridiculously tan with her

besties as they cruised the St. Mary’s! On and off the river, Abby was the heart

of her friend group, always ready to drop everything for a friend who needed

her. Never one to sit still, she surrounded herself with friends and family, striving to fill every moment with the joys and passion of life.

Above all else, Abby’s greatest joy was her children, Pyper and Jack, who

were truly everything to her. When they were babies, she refused to ever set

them down, wanting to soak in every moment. She stayed home to raise them

and filled every day with magic, inventing games and lounging at the pool and

baking after school treats. She knew everything about every single one of their

friends.

At their high school, she ran every parents’ club imaginable: the band, the

debate team, the show choir, the basketball team, the track team, the trap team.

No one else would have been able to get it quite right for her kids. She was

their biggest cheerleader as they began their adult lives, visiting them at college

whenever they needed and spending hours with them on the phone when things

got tough. Abby encouraged her kids to love life and explore the world, promising she would one day live in a ‘Mother-in-law Shack’ in their backyards if

they ever moved too far away. Abby raised her children in Omaha, Nebraska,

where she found community with other moms, spending many evenings golfing

or eating chips and salsa.

Abby was predeceased by her maternal grandparents; John Carr Sr and

Emma Carr, paternal grandparents; Cecil and Josephine Langendorf, mother;

Patricia (Carr) Langendorf, her uncles Johnny Carr Jr and Richard (Dick) Langendorf, and her aunt Marilynn DeGrood.

Abby is survived by her children; Pyper Haarala (Adam Beer) of Denver,

CO and Jack Haarala of Omaha, NE; her father, James B. Langendorf of Sugar

Island, MI; her brothers, Michael Langendorf (Loni LeBlanc) of Brimley, MI,

James (Maria) Langendorf of Franklin, Ohio; her former husband John Haarala

of Omaha, NE; sister in-laws, Lori Langendorf of Sault Ste Marie, MI, Jill

(Jason) Rickard, Heather Haarala, and brother in-law Jeff Haarala, all of

Brighton, MI. Abby was a loving, caring and always goofy aunt to the nieces

and nephews she leaves behind; Conner, Sydney, Darren, Carrie, Michael, Jessica, Davis, Ava, Matthew, Madison and her newest (great) nephew Holden—

whom to all she is fondly known as everyone’s favorite aunt.

Abby also leaves behind her many loving aunts, uncles, and cousins from

her extended family, with whom she made many special bonds with throughout

her life. Her extended family surrounded her with love and support during her

recent illness. She also leaves behind her truly unforgettable and loving

“Besties” friend group who have been by her side for so very long, and her

beloved, sweet, and silly dog Minka.

Abby’s vibrant spirit, generous heart, and love for her family and friends

will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all those who were blessed

to know her.

Memorial services in celebration of Abigail’s life:

Where: Niigaanagiizhik Ceremonial Building, 11 Ice Circle, Sault Ste Marie,

MI 49783

Date/Time: Saturday, Jan. 24, 2026 beginning with family visitation from 8 a.m.

to 10 a.m. and open visitation from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Memorial services will

commence at 12 p.m., with a luncheon held in Abigail’s honor immediately to

follow.

The family has entrusted Abigail’s care to Keehn-Griffin Funeral Home, 706

W. Main Street, Brighton, Mich.

Friends and loved ones are invited to share a condolence or special memory

of Abigail with her family by signing her online obituary/guestbook.

Condolences may be left at www.familylifefh.com.

Anita Louise (Lyons) Charles

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Anita Louise (Lyons)

Charles, who passed away peacefully on Dec. 26, 2025, at the age of 68, in

Sault Ste. Marie, Mich., surrounded by her loved ones and her beloved husband,

Donald Charles Sr. Anita was born on Oct. 8, 1957, in Sault Ste. Marie, to the

late James and Audrey (LeBlanc) Lyons of Brimley, Michigan. She lived a life

defined by love, compassion, and devotion to those she held close.

Anita shared a beautiful marriage with her beloved husband, Donald. Their

relationship was built on deep love, mutual respect, laughter, and unwavering

support. They cherished one another every day, bringing joy, comfort, and

warmth into each other’s lives. Their bond was steady and enduring, a true testament to a life shared in love.

Anita will be remembered for her gentle heart, her love of playing BUNKO

with her extended family, and her competitive spirit during lively games of

Yahtzee. She enjoyed long visits over a cup of coffee and had a natural way of

making others feel welcomed and valued. Her kindness, patience, and generosity left a lasting impact on those around her.

She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a proud grandmother, a caring sister

and aunt, and a treasured friend. Her family meant everything to her, and she

gave of herself fully and selflessly.

Anita is survived by her husband, Donald Charles Sr.; her children, Steven

Lyons, Jennifer (Randy) Touchtone, Anthony Hole, Heather Lyons, Melissa

Lyons, Olive (Steven) Massey, and Donald Charles Jr.; sisters, Kathi Carrick,

Dawn (David) Terrell, Melanie Lyons, and Michele LeBlanc; brother, Walter

(Bobbi) Lyons; in-laws, Cathy Charles, Christine Farrish, Darlene Clemenshaw

Farrish, Shirley (Tom) Hole, Hank (Glenda) Williams, Robert (Joyce) Farrish,

William (Donna) Wesenick, and Margaret Farrish; and several grandchildren,

great-grandchildren, and many dear friends and extended family.

She was preceded in death by her parents, James and Audrey; her siblings,

Marilyn (Larry) Yon, James Lyons Jr., Denise LeBlanc, Gerri LeBlanc, and

Lawrence Lyons; her brothers-in-law, Nelson Farrish, Roger Charles Sr., and

Michael Carrick Sr.; and her beloved granddaughter, Skye Marie Link.

Services took place at Brimley Baptist Church.

Anita will be laid to rest at Mission Hill Cemetery in Brimley, Michigan.

Anita (Weezy’s) legacy lives on through the love she shared, the family she

nurtured, and the countless lives she touched with her kindness, laughter, and

unwavering care. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

Family Life Funeral Homes – Sault Ste. Marie assisted the family with

arrangements. Condolences may be given to the family at

www.familylifefh.com.

Marie Pearl Parish

It is with sadness that we announce Marie Pearl Parish of Kincheloe, Mich.

went home on Nov. 30, 2025, at the ripe age of 95 years and 10 months old.

In her lifetime, Marie was defined by her devotion to her children and grandchildren. Also, she made a point of locating her three adopted sisters.

Marie loved baking, dancing, friends, and hanging out with her grandchildren. She also loved shopping for clothes, imitation flowers, and sweets.

She traveled with her husband and children from Arizona to Florida and back

to Michigan.

Marie is survived by her daughters, Iva Bowen, Darlene (Mike) Suggitt, and

Effie Parish; twenty-five grandchildren; forty-seven great-grandchildren; several great-great-grandchildren; sisters, Maria Thrasher of Arizona and Patricia

Farrington of New Hampshire; and many nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Robert; daughter, Rosanna Parish;

sons, Robert Parish, Wayne Parish, and Danny Parish; great-grandchildren,

Robert Hart, Edmond D. Hart, George Hart, and Joseph Bowen; parents, Robert

and Lila; brothers, William Adams and George Adams; and sister, Marilyn J.

Robinson.

Marie will be missed dearly by all who knew her and loved her.

The burial on Mission Hill will be postponed until spring.

Page 11

BMCC celebrates 25 years as a charter school authorizer

BRIMLEY — Bay Mills Community College marked the 25th anniversary

of authorizing charter schools on Dec. 21, 2025. Since issuing its first two charter contracts in 2000, to what are now State Street Academy and the Arts &

Technology Academy of Pontiac, BMCC has been a transformative force in public education, particularly for underserved communities.

BMCC’s charter school work emerged in the wake of Michigan’s historic

1994 Proposal A, which reformed school funding and opened the door to public

school choice. BMCC stepped into that space to ensure that choice meant access

to excellent, mission-driven schools for all.

The path to authorization began with tribal leadership’s advocacy, leading to

a 2000 amendment of Michigan law to include tribally controlled community

colleges as charter school authorizers. This unique status allowed BMCC - with

a geographic boundary encompassing the entire state - to become a crucial authorizer, especially after the statutory cap was reached on university-authorized

schools. Despite legal challenges, that authority was affirmed in 2006, BMCC

has remained steadfast in its mission.

Over the past 25 years, BMCC has authorized 55 public charter schools, with

43 schools currently authorized and serving 23,168 students across Michigan.

Today, more than 84% of students in BMCC-authorized schools qualify for free

or reduced-price lunch, and over 48% are African American, with significant

representation of Native American, Hispanic, and Asian American students.

A cornerstone achievement is the Ojibwe Charter School, located in Brimley,

which returned a K-12 school to the Bay Mills Indian Community for the first

time since 1940, restored the teaching of tribal language and traditions.

“As we celebrate 25 years of authorizing charter schools in Michigan, I am

honored to reflect on the work that has transformed thousands of young lives,”

said Mariah Wanic, director of Charter Schools at BMCC. “Having served in

the Bay Mills Community College Charter Schools Office since 2003, I have

witnessed firsthand the power of educational opportunity, especially for students

who have historically been underserved. Our commitment remains unwavering:

to ensure that every child, regardless of background or circumstance, has access

to a meaningful education and the chance to succeed.”

The legacy is deeply rooted in the college’s founding principles.

“Our community has always placed a high value on education, both to help

future generations advance, but also as a way for us to pass down our culture

and heritage from one generation to the next,” said Mickey Parish, former president of BMCC, in a 2009 report. “Our college exists to serve a historically underserved population… Chartering K-12 schools is an extension of this

mission.”

BMCC President Dr. Duane Bedell couldn’t agree more.

“As we celebrate 25 years of authorizing charter schools, I am deeply proud of

the transformative impact Bay Mills Community College has had on Michigan’s

students and communities. Our mission is rooted in the belief that every child,

regardless of background or circumstance, deserves access to an excellent education and the opportunity to thrive. By championing equity and supporting

schools that serve those with the greatest need, we are not only opening doors

for thousands of young people but also strengthening the fabric of our communities, “ said Bedell. “The legacy of BMCC is a testament to hope, resilience,

and an unwavering commitment to educational excellence. Together, we will

continue to empower future generations and honor the trust placed in us by families across the state.”

As the CSO looks forward, its primary focus is on providing oversight and

support to its current 43 schools. The application process remains open for potential new schools that demonstrate a strong alignment with BMCC’s standards

and mission of serving students and communities with the greatest need.

BMCC’s Charter School Office is a federally recognized tribally controlled

community college authorizer committed to ensuring high-quality public school

options for Michigan students, with a special focus on underserved urban and

community-based populations. It provides rigorous oversight, comprehensive

support, and innovative programming to the schools it authorizes.

Page 12

BMRC responds to kitchen roof collapse

BAY MILLS — On Tuesday, Jan. 6,

Bay Mills Resort & Casino was forced to

close Sacy’s Restaurant and part of the

gaming floor due to a partial roof collapse.

Employees working in the kitchen

heard a large rumble, and immediately

took action to evacuate the area. No injuries were reported in the collapse,

which is isolated to the kitchen area.

“Our deepest gratitude goes out to the

employees at Bay Mills Resort & Casino,

who due to their rapid response and quick

evacuation, helped ensure the safety of

both guests and staff,” said BMIC President Whitney Gravelle. “The gaming

floor was closed only as a precaution.”

A few hours after the collapse, and a

structural evaluation, pedestrian traffic

was rerouted and the gaming floor reopened. Sacy’s will remain closed until

repairs are complete.

Preliminary observations indicated the

collapse may have been caused by dam-

age to the roof trusses. Further investigation has revealed a structural deficit dating back to when the structure was first

built in 1995.

“While we have had an abundance of

snow this season, we can safely say that

snow was not the cause of the roof collapse,” added Gravelle. “Maintenance

staff have been actively conducting ongoing snow shoveling and other preventative care in the area and on the roofs of

our buildings.”

Apply for spring turkey through Feb. 1

The application period for Michigan’s

spring turkey hunting season is open now

through Sunday, Feb. 1. Applications cost

$5 each and can be purchased at any license

agent,

online

at Michigan.gov/DNRLicenses or through

the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish app.

Hunters should be aware of several important changes to the spring turkey season this year, including a major update to

the number of turkey management units,

or TMUs, and the license options available

in those units.

“These regulation changes uphold the

goals for the spring turkey hunting season:

maximizing hunter opportunity while also

maintaining satisfactory hunting experiences across the state,” said Adam Bump,

the DNR’s upland game bird specialist.

New spring turkey management units

Beginning in 2026, the number of spring

turkey management units is reduced from

14 to three:

* Unit M – Upper Peninsula

* Unit NN – Northern Lower Peninsula

* Unit ZZ – Southern Lower Peninsula

Before buying a license, hunters are

strongly encouraged to review the official

TMU maps in the 2026 Spring Turkey

Hunting Regulations Summary.

License options available without applica-

tion

The following licenses are guaranteed

and do not require entering the drawing.

The licenses can be purchased beginning

at 10 a.m. Monday, March 16.

* Statewide (Hunt 0234): April 25-May

31. License quota: Unlimited. Valid on

public and private lands statewide except

for public lands in Unit ZZ.

* Unit ZZ (Hunt 0301 – Private land

only): April 18-May 31. License quota:

Unlimited. Valid on private lands in Unit

ZZ.

“These changes will give hunters

longer seasons and bigger units to hunt

in,” said Bump.

Work to repair Sacy’s has begun and

will not impact BMRC’s Grand Opening

events.

Moving forward, safety and engineering assessments will continue as repairs

are completed to ensure full structural integrity of the entire building.

“Our main focus is to continue to offer

the highest level of safety to our team

members and guests while we extend the

best service possible,” said BMRC General Manager Richard LeBlanc.

BMRC guests still have the option to

dine, including breakfast, as Back Bay

Grill & Games remains open.

Drawing results

Drawing results will be available Monday, March 2. Hunters are responsible for

checking their own results online at eLicense or through the Michigan DNR Hunt

Fish app.

Hunters who are unsuccessful in the

drawing may purchase a leftover license

for a hunt with a remaining quota beginning at 10 a.m. Monday, March 9. Hunters

who did not apply for the drawing may

purchase leftover licenses beginning at 10

a.m. Monday, March 16. Depending on

demand, leftover licenses may or may not

be available.

Store Hours: Mon - Fri 7 a.m.- 9 p.m. Sat & Sun 8 a.m - 9 p.m.

CHESTER’S CHICKEN is open daily from noon to 6 p.m.

We have a complete line of

building materials and supplies.

Take care of your project list in one visit!

906-478-3821 • 906-495-2975 • 1-800-743-3395

Open Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

19030 S. Mackinac Trail

P.O. Box 309

Rudyard, Michigan

Page 13

2026 Black Lake sturgeon season opens Feb. 7

The 2026 lake sturgeon fishing season on Black Lake in Cheboygan County, Michigan, will begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 7. All anglers must register online to participate

in the fishing season, and those age 17 or older must have a valid Michigan fishing license.

The harvest limit for the 2026 season on Black Lake is six lake sturgeon. Officials

will close the season when one of two scenarios occurs:

* The sixth fish is harvested.

* Five fish have been harvested at the end of any fishing day.

Fishing hours are 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day of the season. The season will end either

at 2 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11, or when one of the above scenarios is met, at which

point anglers will be notified via text message and on the ice by Michigan Department

of Natural Resources personnel that they must immediately stop fishing for lake sturgeon.

Anyone who wants to participate must register online by close of business Friday,

Feb. 6. Get more registration and season information at Michigan.gov/Sturgeon.

Participating anglers must bring their own bright red flags (1-foot diameter or larger)

to hang on their fishing shanties. Season officials emphasize that anglers are required

to hang one or more flags in highly visible locations on their shanties so DNR personnel

can readily identify which anglers are sturgeon fishing.

Anglers harvesting a lake sturgeon must immediately contact DNR personnel on

the ice. Official registration of each harvested fish will take place at a DNR trailer located on or near the ice at the end of Zollner Road in the northwest part of Black Lake.

Harvest registration may include an examination of the fish's internal organs and removal of a piece of fin tissue for DNA analysis or aging.

Lake sturgeon rehabilitation efforts in Black Lake over the last two decades have

been a successful collaboration between the DNR, Sturgeon for Tomorrow, tribal agencies, Michigan State University and Tower-Kleber Limited Partnership. This population has increased in the past 20 years due to lake sturgeon rearing and stocking efforts,

research and protection of spawning adults, and this trend is expected to continue.

Ice conditions may vary greatly, and anglers should always use extreme caution

when ice fishing. The Black Lake sturgeon season start date will not be postponed due

to weather or other conditions. The season may be canceled up to 48 hours prior to the

start of the season if circumstances pose a significant safety risk to anglers and staff

(per Fisheries Order 240). The DNR will post any updated information to the department website and notify anglers via text message and email if any changes occur.

Visit Michigan.gov/IceSafety for tips to stay safe on the ice.

DNR continues to clear the way

for UP winter fishing access

Soo Locks close for the season

SAULT STE. MARIE — Just before 5:30 p.m. during a brief snow squall, the 1,000

foot long American Spirit made its way under the Internatonal Bridge on an icy approach

to close out the 2025-26 navigation season at the Soo Locks.. Commercial traffic ceases,

through 12:01 a.m. March 25 to perform seasonal critical maintenance.

Federal regulation (33 CFR 207.440) establishes the operating season based on the feasibility of vessels operating during typical Great Lakes ice conditions.

This winter maintenance period, the MacArthur Lock will not be dewatered and will

close for the season when the weather or ice conditions make operation unsafe and/or inefficient, or when the Poe Lock closes, whichever comes first. Communication with industry will be made at least 48 hours prior to closure. The MacArthur Lock is scheduled to

reopen in late April 2026.

The team will install temporary panel bridges across the MacArthur and Poe Lock. The

panel bridges will provide the ability to mobilize materials and equipment to the job sites

throughout the winter closure.

Maintenance on the MacArthur Lock will include the Soo Project Office fabricating and

replacing spring boxes and lever arms for Gates 3, 4 and 5, constructing a recess cutout for

the panel bridge, repairing a Gate 2 strut arm, as well as concrete and deck plate repairs to

Gate 5

Maintenance on the Poe Lock will include underfloor cleanout and manhole inspection,

a five-year periodic assessment, Gate 1 repairs, Gate 4 lifting lug installation, Gate 3 jacking

pedestal repairs and testing of Ice Study wall coating.

In addition to the above, crews will also perform a wide range of other maintenance

tasks from the replacement of pier fender timbers to inspections and preventative maintenance on electrical and mechanical systems on both the Poe and MacArthur Locks.

More than 4,500 vessels, carrying up to 80 million tons of cargo, maneuver through the

locks annually. Iron ore, coal, wheat and limestone are among the most frequently carried

commodities. Opened in 1969, the Poe Lock is 1,200 feet long. The MacArthur Lock

opened in 1943 and is 800 feet long.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is continuing a successful program

to keep boating access sites plowed at more than two dozen popular Upper Peninsula

ice-fishing locations.

“This program has been a big help in maintaining public access to hard water resources throughout the wintertime,” said John Pepin, DNR deputy public information

officer. “Those using the access sites should keep ice safety in mind and take extra

caution not to damage any boating infrastructure, like docks or boat landing surfaces,

at these locations.”

Various local partners have again agreed to assist the DNR with the program to

ensure access to ice fishing opportunities in the U.P. are available consistently during

snow conditions.

The DNR enters into agreements with partners to plow the access sites, which are

primarily managed for recreational boating. An evaluation takes place each spring to

assess several things, including how often the plowed sites are used and whether damage occurs to the access ramps.

Locations to have boating access sites plowed this winter include:

* Baraga County: Vermilac Lake, Silver River

* Chippewa County: Munuscong Lake

* Delta County: Little Bay de Noc (Kipling)

* Dickinson County: Lake Louise

* Iron County: Indian Lake, Swan Lake, Lake Mary, Lake Emily, Lake Ellen

* Keweenaw County: Gratiot Lake, Lake Medora, Lake Bailey

* Luce County: Little Lake Harbor, Kak’s Lake, Big Manistique Lake

* Mackinac County: South Manistique Lake, Big Manistique Lake, Milakokia Lake

and Millecoquins Lake

* Marquette County: Lake Michigamme, Greenwood Reservoir, Big Shag Lake,

Schweitzer Creek Flowage

* Schoolcraft County: McDonald Lake, Indian Lake

Anyone interested in partnering with the DNR to keep more access sites plowed for

winter

access,

please

contact

Stacy

Welling-Haughey

at WellingS1@Michigan.gov or 906-228-6561.

For more information on places to fish in Michigan, visit the DNR’s webpage

at Michigan.gov/Fishing.

Rhythm Clock Co. has gone out of business.

Howard Miller Clock Co. has gone out of business

We have a nice selection of their clocks

at close-out prices!

Call 906-248-5436 for appointment

10962 W Irish Line Rd., Brimley

One Mile West of Post Office • 906-248-5436

Page 14

Public attitudes toward wolves split in the U.P.

By SAMANTHA KU

Capital News Service

LANSING – Public attitudes toward

wolves are split in the Upper Peninsula,

a new study finds, with more than 60%

of residents surveyed favoring reducing

wolf abundance, motivated mostly by

worry about risks to livestock, whitetailed deer and human safety.

However, those who valued the ecological role of wolves were less likely to

support cutting their numbers, according

to the study, “Social and Ecological Influences on Human Coexistence with

Gray Wolves,” in the journal Conservation Science and Practice.

“Perceived risks, particularly to deer,

strongly influenced attitudes,” the study

said.

The Wolf Conservation Center, based

in New York, reported that there were at

least 762 wolves in the UP in 2023.

The study recommended that the Department of Natural Resources balance

public concerns with management of the

state’s wolf population.

In the United States, heightened perception of risks negatively impacts people’s willingness to coexist with wolves.

“People living with wolves perceive

real risks that need to be attended to,”

said researcher Shawn Riley, an emeritus

professor in the Michigan State University Department of Fisheries and

Wildlife.

Riley, the lead author of the study,

said those risks are to livestock, deer

populations and human health and

safety.

The DNR’s management plan was

most recently updated in 2022, reflecting

a better understanding of wolf biology.

The plan proposes multiple approaches to promote positive interactions

between people and wolves. Those include public education and fostering the

ecological, cultural, economic and personal benefits from maintaining sustainable wolf populations.

To address risks, the plan suggests removing direct threats to human safety

and livestock.

Non-lethal options include removing

things that attract wolves and using scare

devices and deterrent techniques, as well

as using fencing, lighting systems and

livestock-guarding animals.

The plan also supports financial compensation for livestock losses caused by

wolves.

Riley said balancing local concerns

Bad River Band challenges Federal

approval for Enbridge’s Line 5 reroute

WASHINGTON D.C. — The Bad River Band of Lake Superior Chippewa has filed

a lawsuit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for unlawfully granting Canadian

company Enbridge a permit for the construction of a new 41-mile section of its Line

5 oil pipeline. The pipeline would encircle the Band’s Reservation in northern Wisconsin, endangering waters, fish, and wild rice that are culturally sacred and economically critical to Tribal members. The Bad River Band, represented by Earthjustice,

argues that the Corps’ permit fails to comply with the National Environmental Policy

Act and the Clean Water Act. Enbridge aims to reroute a section of Line 5 that has

been trespassing on the Band’s Reservation for more than a decade and faces a courtordered shutdown deadline in June of 2026.

“For more than a decade, we have had to endure the unlawful trespass of a dangerous oil pipeline on our lands and waters,” said Bad River Band Chairwoman Elizabeth

Arbuckle. “The reroute only makes matters worse. Enbridge’s history is full of accidents and oil spills. If that happens here, our Tribe and other communities in the Northwoods will suffer unacceptable consequences. From the Bad River to Lake Superior,

our waters are the lifeblood of our Reservation. They have fed and nurtured our Tribe

for hundreds of years. We will do everything in our power to protect them.”

The Corps approved the reroute project in October despite broad public opposition.

Last summer, the agency received more than 150,000 comments opposing the project,

including from faith groups, businesses, and health experts. Many of them point to the

project’s potential impacts on the Kakagon-Bad River Sloughs, an internationally recognized wetland that harbors the largest remaining wild rice beds on the Great Lakes.

“This reroute will mean blasting, horizontal drilling, and trenching across hundreds

of wetlands and streams,” said Earthjustice Managing Attorney Gussie Lord. “It will

likely do permanent damage to the Band’s treaty-protected water, plants, and medicines

— all for the enrichment of a foreign oil company.”

In May, the Band presented evidence and analysis to the US Army Corps detailing

how the project will violate the Tribe’s water quality standards, which are stricter than

Wisconsin’s.

“All of these impacts to the Band’s water requirements and violations of its water

quality standards will be caused by the Line 5 Reroute,” wrote the Band’s attorneys in

the latest comment letter. “No conditions could be attached to a permit to prevent it.”

In a separate legal challenge, the Band and environmental groups are contesting

permits that the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources granted Enbridge last

year. Construction on the reroute cannot begin until an administrative law judge rules

on that challenge.

with the views of people in other regions

can reduce political tensions.

When those surveyed understood and

appreciated the role of wolves, they were

less likely to support reducing their numbers, he said.

“If there are risks to deer populations

relative to what is desired, a focus on

habitat management for deer rather than

restricting hunter opportunities is more

likely to result in greater levels of acceptance for wolves,” Riley said.

Riley also said that public participa-

tion is important in areas where residents

perceive the negative impact of wolves

because it ensures affected communities

have a voice in the decision-making

process.

“They have greater say in their lives,

as opposed to situations where they perceive decisions are made without consideration for the people living with

wolves,” Riley said.“I believe these findings are relevant and applicable globally

in situations where wolves coexist on

rural landscapes.

Bay Mills Police Dept. responds to

threat made against child care center

BAY MILLS — Bay Mills Police Department responded to concerns of a verbal

threat by phone to the Bay Mills Child Development Center during the early morning

hours of Jan. 8.

As a precaution, the CDC was placed on lock down. At no point were the children

or staff in harms way.

“Our priority was ensuring safety and sharing accurate information as quickly as

possible to prevent rumors and unnecessary panic, and to confirm there was no longer

a threat and that the suspect was in custody,” said BMPD Chief Ron Carrick.

The suspect was not in the vicinity of the CDC and was located several miles away

in Kinross Township. Kinross District Police Department apprehended the individual,

who will be charged with terrorism.

“We sincerely apologize for any distress or confusion this incident may have

caused. We understand the concern from parents and guardians,” said BMIC President

Whitney Gravelle. “The Inter-Tribal Council of Michigan operates the facility, and

we are currently evaluating and revising processes and security protocols with their

administration to respond more effectively in these types of situations moving forward.”

BMPD is working in conjunction with the Chippewa County Sheriff’s Office and

Kinross District Police Department on this matter. The suspect is non-Native and will

be arraigned in State court.

Wrestlers warming up before their matches.

MYWAY Far North GREIGHTs Sault Wrestling Tournament results

The weekend of Jan. 16, Sault Youth Wrestlers traveled to Traverse City to participate in the MYWAY Greights Far North tournament. It is a part of the GREIGHTS

tournament series, which stands for Great Eights. This weekend’s wrestlers won a

puzzle piece of the Upper Peninsula and Lower Tip of the Mitt if they placed 1st 4th. They will need to travel to the remaining 7 locations to obtain further Michigan

puzzle pieces.

Results: Anderson, Brayden 1-2 (DNP), Anderson, Easton 2-2 (3rd), Dominic

Branam 3-2 (DNP), Browning, Carson 0-3 (4th), Browning, Myles 2-0 (1st), Eldred,

Alessa 0-2 (DNP), Hart, Skylynn 0-2 (2nd), Hendrick, Easton 0-2 (2nd), Hendrick,

Kaysen 0-2 (DNP), Hudson, Julian 2-1 (2nd), Klier, Joshua 2-1 (2nd), Klozotsky,

Talia 3-0 (1st), Laitinen, Danny 2-0 (1st), Lehmkuhle, Bryson 0-2 (DNP), Minta,

Jackson 0-3 (4th), Paquin, Colton 3-1 (2nd), Pyle, Travis 2-2 (4th), Pyle III, Guy 0-4

(5th), Semasky, Paige 0-2 (2nd), Smith, Micah 2-2 (4th), and Sweet, Beckham 1-2

(DNP).

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Grievance board seeks members

Bay Mills Indian Community is looking for volunteers to serve on the Grievance

Board. The purpose of the Grievance Board is to ensure that working conditions are

as pleasant as possible and that each employee receives equal, courteous, and fair

treatment that is in line with the Personnel Policies & Procedures.

Any employee or community member interested in becoming a member of the

Grievance Board should submit a short narrative stating their reasons for wanting to

participate in the grievance process. Submissions can be made to the Human Resources

Director within 14 days of the date of this posting (January 29,2026). The Human Resources Director will bring all submissions to the Executive Council for review and selection. The Executive Council may fill vacant seats to ensure adequate representation

between management/non management and tribal/non-tribal candidates.

Submissions via email can be sent to hr@baymills.org or you can send in writing

via inter-office mail or to the address below via postal mail:

Human Resources Department

12140 W Lakeshore Drive

Brimley, MI 49715.

If there are any questions, please direct them to (906) 248-8500.

Snowshoe at Tahquamenon

Every Saturday in February, Tahquamenon Falls will be hosting both lantern-lit and

guided snowshoe hikes at the Upper Falls. Snowshoes will be available to borrow on a

first come, first served basis for free. Event times and details are listed below.

Lantern-Lit Snowshoe Hikes: 6 – 8 p.m.

Enjoy snowshoeing our 1-mile trail lit by kerosene lanterns! Warm up with complimentary refreshments by the bonfire between laps.

Guided Snowshoe Hikes: 2 – 3 p.m.

Join a park ranger on our 1-mile snowshoe trail and learn about the park from a wintertime perspective! Meet at the Fact Shack

BMIC Members reminded about Purchased Referred Care

If you or a family member seek emergency medical care you must inform the

office within 72 hours of your care by calling them to get help with payment. Elders

have up to 30 days to contact PRC. This includes visits to the emergency room or

use of an ambulance. You can reach them by contacting 906-248-8326.

Have you moved? Update your address!

Bay Mills Tribal Enrollment office asks all tribal citizens to maintain a current

address with their office. An online form can be found at www.baymills.org.

Walking path is closed to motorized vehicles

BMIC has developed a pedestrian/bicycle path connecting both sides of the Reservation. This path is for pedestrians and bicyclists only, and our existing tribal ordinances

prohibit motorized vehicles from using this path. Signs have been posted. Please be

aware that BMPD has been directed to strictly enforce this rule along that pathway to

protect walkers, runners, cyclists, and the path itself. If you ride an ATV, ORV, dirt bike,

motorcycle, golf cart, etc on this path, you should expect to receive a ticket and pay

a fine.

Give Your Child a Good Start ...

with Head Start!

The Bay Mills Child Development Center

is currently accepting

applications for the upcoming school year.

For more information, please call

Andrea Shaw at 248-8700.

Page 15

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